The Association on American Indian Affairs (the Association) is pleased to announce the release of the agenda for the 10th Annual Repatriation Conference: Igniting Change. This year’s conference will be held
February 25–27, 2025, at the Paragon Resort in Marksville, Louisiana, hosted by the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe. The agenda offers a dynamic lineup of training, workshops, and cultural events aimed at advancing repatriation efforts and fostering collaboration.
This year, the conference provides comprehensive training on the new Native American
Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) regulations, which were issued in January
Attendees will walk through the step-by-step process through hands-on training
sessions led by NAGPRA experts, covering the practical implementation of the new
regulations, which includes strict timelines, deference to Native Traditional Knowledge, and
enhanced consultation protocols requiring consent. The conference will also provide
methods to create a healthy environment for repatriation practice, as well as explore topics
such as international repatriation, illicit trafficking, hazardous treatments, working with the
media and other topics related to the protection of Native cultural heritage.
“As we prepare to host the 10th Annual Repatriation Conference, we are honored to
welcome Native Nation leaders, cultural practitioners, and advocates from across the
country,” said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “This milestone gathering underscores
the vital work of reclaiming and protecting our Ancestors, sacred items, and cultural heritage.
It is a profound responsibility and privilege to continue these efforts together, fostering
collaboration and shared purpose in restoring what is rightfully ours.”
The conference also includes a variety of immersive events, such as a special screening of
The Great Salish Heist on the first night of the Conference at the Paragon Theater. This
gripping story follows Steve Joe, a traditional archeologist, as he teams up with unlikely allies
to reclaim stolen ceremonial items. On the second evening, a cultural event with dinner will
provide attendees with an opportunity to connect and immerse themselves in the heritage of
the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe. Attendees will also have the chance to visit the Tunica-Biloxi Cultural
& Educational Resource Center, home to the “Tunica Treasure,” a repatriated collection of
trade and funerary items.
Keynote speakers include Abigail Echo-Hawk, Executive Vice President at the Seattle Indian
Health Board, and Chip Colwell, former Senior Curator of Anthropology at the Denver
Museum of Nature & Science and a leading voice in the fight for repatriation.
Breakfast and lunch will be provided each day, with dinner included during the cultural event.
Native Nation officials and representatives are invited to attend free of charge, and regular
registration is available for all others until registration closes on February 19, 2025. Limited
exhibitor and vendor spaces are also available.
For more information on the agenda, sponsorship opportunities, and registration, visit
Indian-Affairs.org/10thannualrepatriationconference.